Research Summary: Mobile NEP and Harm Reduction Services in Ontario
Mobile NEP Summary_July 2025_Final
The Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy (WGDS) undertook an environmental scan to better understand the design and delivery of mobile harm reduction, needle exchange and drug checking services across Ontario. This work was initiated in response to a Ministry directive requiring the relocation of Stay Sharp and Drug Checking Services from their current location at 176 Wyndham St. N. WGDS reached out to 12 organizations operating mobile programs in urban and rural communities across Ontario. This research focused on understanding key components of the programs such as:
- Service delivery models (van-based, on-foot, pop-up, paramedic-led)
- Integration of peers and health professionals
- Safety and accessibility considerations
- Partnerships with housing, health, and community supports
- Engagement with encampments
- Drug checking and expanded health services
Key findings show that many programs operate mobile units that set up in public spaces or in partnership with existing service hubs. Units often offer safe substance use supplies, food, hygiene products, and access to health care in a way that is both predictable and adaptable – a critical feature in ensuring low-barrier access to essential health and social supports. Additional findings include:
- Diverse Service Models Tailored to Local Needs
Mobile harm reduction programs vary significantly by region, with models ranging from paramedic-led teams, community health vans, to peer-led outreach models. Many operate using vans, buses, or on-foot outreach, depending on geography, client needs, and funding. Schedules vary depending on community need, and some have a fixed schedule, while others are more flexible and offer delivery to a wide range of locations such as homes, organizations or encampments.
- Multi-Service “Market” Models Are Emerging
Some programs, like in Grey County, use a “market” model—bringing multiple service providers (e.g., health, housing, mental health) together in one place to provide wraparound services during outreach events.
- Peers Are Central to Service Delivery
Peers are employed across most regions, contributing to kit assembly, outreach, and client engagement. Their lived/living experience supports trust and service uptake.
- Mobile Drug Checking Is Expanding
Several programs are now offering or exploring drug checking services using tools like drug testing strips, Scatr and Spectra, with Health Canada exemptions approved or pending. This is seen as a critical addition to NEP work, especially amid the toxic drug supply.
- Mobile Services Fill Gaps in Rural and Underserved Areas
Outreach into rural regions and encampments is a priority for many services. Some use drones, ATVs, and encampment mapping to reach hard-to-access areas, particularly in the north and rural areas.
- Safety and Weather Protocols Are Standardized
Most programs have protocols around worker safety, including working in pairs, weather-related cancellations, and avoidance of unsafe environments. Staff are trained in de-escalation and crisis response.
- Strong Partnerships Strengthen Reach and Impact
Collaboration is a cornerstone—whether with public health, hospitals, shelters, housing services, or local Indigenous organizations. Many programs also rely on flexible, responsive scheduling to meet emerging community needs.
- Peer-Led, On-Foot Outreach Models Focus on Deep Engagement
Programs in places like Cambridge and Thunder Bay emphasize on-foot, peer-led outreach, especially to encampments and hard-to-reach individuals. These models prioritize relationship-building and often link clients directly to housing and other health/social services. This approach is vital in areas where trust in systems may be low or where vehicles can’t reach.
To view the full research document on mobile harm reduction programs in Ontario, please reach out to Jean Hopkins at: jhopkins@guelphchc.ca
